Elevating Thyme Species Identification: Exploiting Key Chloroplast Genes (matK, rbcL, and psbA-trnH) through DNA Barcoding and Phylogenetic Analysis

Abstract

Understanding genetic relationships and diversity among species is crucial for unraveling evolutionary processes, ecological interactions, and conservation strategies. DNA sequence analysis serves as a powerful tool in this endeavor. This study focuses on the Thymus genus, a collection of notable species, to investigate its genetic framework. Leveraging DNA sequences from key regions (matK, rbcL, and psbA-trnH), we aim to elucidate genetic connections within the Thymus genus and uncover mechanisms driving its diversity. The Thymus genus, with its diverse species and ecological characteristics, provides a captivating platform for genetic exploration. Through DNA sequence analysis, we aim to unveil genetic interconnections, biodiversity patterns, and the factors shaping the genus's evolution. Our findings are aligned with previous studies, and this consistency highlights the presence of polymorphism within potential sequences. Employing coding loci and spacer regions, our study contributes to Lamiaceae family barcoding research. Despite variations across gene regions, the concatenation of sequences enhances result reliability. We analyzed the suitability of matK, rbcL, and psbA sequences for Thymus identification, observing rbcL and psbA outperforming matK. Our novel approach, rooted in chloroplast DNA, presents a promising method for species discernment. By analyzing multiple chloroplast gene regions, this technique offers a fresh perspective on genetic affinity assessment using DNA barcodes. In conclusion, this study not only contributes to Thymus germplasm resource preservation but also exemplifies a novel approach to discerning Thymus species through DNA analysis. This methodology carries the potential for broader application, enriching our understanding of genetic relationships and diversity in the plant kingdom.